The former Merseyside Police Chief Constable, who had been the current Acting Deputy Commissioner, was selected chosen ahead of the Acting Commissioner Tim Godwin, Sir Hugh Orde, the president of the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO), and Chief Constable Stephen House of Strathclyde Police for the position.

"I am delighted to announce Bernard Hogan-Howe as the new Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police," said Home Secretary Theresa May.

"As you would expect for such a prestigious position, we had an exceptional field of candidates, but Bernard Hogan-Howe impressed us all with his vision for the Metropolitan Police, his commitment to cutting crime and the important work he has done for the public.

"I made my recommendation following representations from the Metropolitan Police Authority and discussions with the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson.

"The Government's reforms are transforming the police in this country and Bernard Hogan-Howe has the skills and experience needed to ensure the nation's biggest force is at the forefront of this change.

"London is a great city and will next year host the biggest sporting event in this nation's history.

"I am confident he will lead the fight against crime with determination and vigour."

Hogan-Howe replaces Sir Paul Stephenson, who along with former Assistant Commissioner John Yates, retired from their positions in relation to the phone hacking scandal.

The 54-year-old, who has an MA in Law from the University of Oxford and a diploma in applied criminology from the University of Cambridge, takes up the role after London was last month at the centre of serious rioting which took some of the shine off London's preparations for 2012.


"Public confidence is paramount for any police force and Bernard Hogan-Howe has the impressive track record to restore confidence and crack down on violent crime and disorder," said Johnson.

"I was particularly impressed by his promise to build a Met that criminals fear, public respect and the police are proud of, with a focus on humility, integrity and transparency.

"Over recent weeks London has faced immense policing challenges and I truly believe that Bernard Hogan-Howe has the sound expertise to handle critical issues and keep our streets safe."

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